Answer
Feb 24, 2025 - 09:34 AM
The Twin Cam 88 in your Road King still uses the spring-loaded cam chain tensioners, and those are usually the first to wear out, so if you’re going in to replace the chain, it’s a good idea to check (or upgrade) those at the same time.
First thing, pull the cam cover off (after draining the oil unless you like a mess), and you’ll see the timing chain and tensioners. If the tensioner shoes are worn down, replace them now or upgrade to the hydraulic tensioner system — a lot of guys do this since the stock ones wear fast.
Once you’re in there, line up the timing marks on the cam and crank sprockets, then lock them in place so they don’t move on you. After that, just unbolt the sprockets, pull the old chain out, and swap in the new one. Before buttoning everything up, double-check those timing marks. If they’re even a little off, the bike won’t run right.
Put it all back together, torque everything to spec, throw in fresh oil, and turn the engine over by hand a few times before firing it up. If you did everything right, you should be good to go!
In any case, the service manual will lay out the manufacturer's recommended procedure for timing chain replacement. So if you want to get it right, this manual is perfect for you!
